Rivers Assembly calls for DSS probe into chief judge’s age falsification allegation

The Rivers State House of Assembly has resolved to invite the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate allegations of age falsification against Chief Judge Simeon Amadi.

Leader of the House, Hon. Major Jack, presented the matter during Thursday’s plenary, citing Order 23 of the House’s Standing Orders.

In their separate addresses, members emphasised that falsification is a serious offense but stressed the need for a thorough investigation to verify the claims.

“The findings will be forwarded to the National Judicial Council (NJC),” Speaker Martin Amaewhule said.

• EFCC arraigns husband, wife for allegedly impersonating Katsina First Lady
• Senate remains in shame as distinguished Senator Natasha fights on

He noted that while the House is empowered to investigate under Section 128 of the Constitution, Governor Siminalayi Fubara had barred heads of ministries, departments, and agencies from cooperating with the Assembly.

Assembly urges governor to present 2025 budget

The probe comes amid a deepening rift between the Assembly and Governor Fubara, who is being threatened with impeachment and has yet to present the 2025 appropriation bill. The governor’s attempt to present the budget on Wednesday was unsuccessful as he was not granted access into the assembly complex.

But Dr. Enemi Alagbo George, Chairman of the Assembly’s Committee on Information, said the delay in the presentation of the budget has left lawmakers unpaid for over a year.

“Without the budget, we can’t get our entitlements. We acted immediately after the Supreme Court judgment, urging the governor to present the budget for Rivers’ progress. His actions are delaying essential services like hospitals and schools,” George said.

Fubara appeals for peace, compliance with Supreme Court ruling

Meanwhile, Governor Fubara, while speaking at the inauguration of the renovated Okrika Grammar School on Thursday, called for peace and compliance with the Supreme Court ruling.

“The Supreme Court has made its judgment; we don’t have any option than to abide by it. We are appealing to all parties to consider the interest of Rivers State. The only thing we owe this state is peace and development,” Fubara said.